Use psychology to help learners succeed
Educational Psychology is a practical and applied science that combines the study of education and psychology. It is a distinct discipline that focuses on how people of all ages learn, develop, and are motivated within educational contexts (e.g., homes, ECE centres, schools, tertiary institutes, and workplaces). It draws on theories and research from child and developmental psychology, school psychology, neuroscience, anthropology, and cultural studies. Educational Psychologists use developmental and psychological theories, empirical research, and scientific methods to explain and support development and learning.
Educational Psychology students study topics such as learning and memory, motivation and engagement, assessment, teaching methods, classroom design and management, individual differences, cognitive neuroscience, inclusive education, and the impact of social and cultural contexts on learning and teaching. They apply this knowledge and insights to inform teaching practice, curriculum design, assessment, educational policy, and interventions that support learners, teachers, and educational systems.
Support children’s success
Hear from one of our Educational Psychology students.
Choose your study path
You can study Educational Psychology as a major subject in the:
- Bachelor of Psychology
- Bachelor of Arts.
To help you decide which degree is right for you, think about your main interests and what other subjects you’d like to learn about.
Degree support and advice
We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.
If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
Study options
Find out how you can study Educational Psychology at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Future careers
With a degree in this subject, you might go on to work in public and private sector roles like:
- wellbeing adviser
- support worker
- policy analyst
- trainer or facilitator
- education advocate
- programme and intervention developer
- research assistant
- learning support advisor.
Your background knowledge in child development and education can also help you in your career as an:
- early childhood, primary school, or secondary school teacher
- education officer
- information specialist.
More career information
Find out more about careers in Educational Psychology.
The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have first-year and school-leaver scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas.
Scholarships for Education or Psychology
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The fund, which was established at the time of the renovation of the C3 lecture theatre, is to assist a second-year student from any faculty in their studies at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington
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This scholarship is open to any undergraduate or postgraduate student who is currently enrolled full-time in a degree majoring in Education. The scholarship will be awarded on the basis of academic merit, but where more than one top applicant consideration will be given to applicants experiencing financial hardship.
Scholarships for international students
We are currently offering a NZ$15,000 VUW Undergraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Bachelor’s degree.
Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.
We also offer specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas.
Scholarships for Education or Psychology
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This scholarship is open to any undergraduate or postgraduate student who is currently enrolled full-time in a degree majoring in Education. The scholarship will be awarded on the basis of academic merit, but where more than one top applicant consideration will be given to applicants experiencing financial hardship.
Postgraduate study
If you choose to continue to postgraduate study with us after finishing your degree, you’ll join a talented team of internationally recognised researchers doing innovative work.
If you get good results in your undergraduate study, you could continue on to study for a Master of Educational Psychology.
Get help to manage your finances
We can help you:
- budget your money
- manage your student loan or allowance
- work out your accommodation payment schedule.
If you're facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.
You may be eligible for government or community support, too.
Wellington Global Exchange
If you're a current student at Victoria University of Wellington, you can complete part of your degree overseas. Choose from our 140 partner universities worldwide.
Study Abroad and Exchange Programme
If you're an overseas student, you can spend a trimester or a year at Victoria University of Wellington. You'll earn credits at your home university while you study here.